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Seismology

Our scientists play a vital role in helping international efforts to bring about a ban on live nuclear weapon testing. Our specialist team at our Blacknest site is continuously conducting seismic research to detect illicit nuclear tests and help reduce and eliminate nuclear weapons worldwide.

Blacknest's main function is to develop and maintain expertise in using seismic techniques to detect and identify underground explosions. Such techniques are a cornerstone of The Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), to which the UK is a signatory. The CTBT demands a monitoring system so sensitive that it can detect underground explosions of one kiloton – a minute displacement of just one millionth of a millimetre.